Top government sources said the government has decided in-principle to clear DTH broadcasting in the country, but with some strict regulations. These regulations will be formulated by the proposed Broadcasting Authority to be set up under the Bill.

Both Doordarshan and private players will be able to offer DTH services once the regulations are in place, sources added.

During its last tenure, the Vajpayee government had given a go-ahead to Doordarshan offering DTH services. However, intervention by the election commission put a spanner in the works.

Several private players, including Zee Telefilms and Star TV, have shown interest in offering DTH services in the country over the last few years. Star TV was on the verge of launching its DTH platform in 1997, but hecticlobbying by rivals forced the government to staff the move.

In the meanwhile, Zee Telefilms is close to launching its direct-to-operator bouquet of channels later this month. Industry observers feel once the government gives the go-ahead this platform can be upgraded to offer DTH services.

Sources said the Broadcasting Bill will cover issues relating to DTH broadcasting and cable regulation in the country. The government is in the process of formulating a comprehensive Broadcasting Bill within the next six months.

The government is in favour of creating a comprehensive regulatory authority for the broadcasting industry on the lines of Press Council of India. The authority will have adequate powers to enforce accountability.

The government has recently set the ball rolling on formulating a comprehensive Broadcast Bill by seeking views from industry. Information & broadcasting minister Arun Jaitley is scheduled to meet private broadcasters and cable operators over the next two weeks for seeking industryinputs on the legislation. The meeting with broadcasters is scheduled for November 9 and the one with cable operators will be held in the subsequent week.

The ministry will also take into account the Broadcast Bill of 1997 and the suggestions made on this by the Parliamentary Select Committee before introducing the new Bill in Parliament.

Jaitley has said the overall objective of the legislation would be to encourage broadcast in India and strengthen the cable network. The new legislation is also expected to tackle issues such as piracy and censorship regulations.

The government also proposes to set up a separate committee to look into issues surrounding Prasar Bharati. The minister had earlier indicated that the government may give more teeth to Prasar Bharati with accountability.